Autonomous driving is destined to become reality in the
not-too-distant future. While the major automakers are putting the
finishing touches on the vehicle technology, the Swiss idea factory
Rinspeed puts the occupants at the center of the driverless car.
Rinspeed boss Frank M. Rinderknecht: "So far hardly anyone has
taken this to its logical conclusion from the perspective of the
driver. After all, traveling in a driverless car will no longer
require me to stare at the road, but will let me spend my time in a
more meaningful way".

The key question is: How does the interior of a vehicle has to
be designed to let the now largely unburdened driver make optimal
use of the time gained? The Swiss company provides the answer with
a fully electric touring sedan by the name of "XchangE." So far
only a few highlights have been revealed. The vehicle features
all-new seats reminiscent of the relaxing business-class seats of
major airlines - with similarly elaborate functionality. And it
uses a completely new operating and display concept with a host of
innovative entertainment, safety and service functions. This makes
it possible to work or relax in particular comfort while riding in
the driverless car. All passengers can enjoy a wide variety of
media or access in-depth information. And to make sure the steering
wheel is not a hindrance while doing so, it can simply be "parked"
in the middle of the dashboard, courtesy of state-of-the-art
"steer-by-wire" technology that can also be found on modern jet
aircraft. It is therefore no surprise that the smart automotive
visionary with a wink negates the advertising slogan that has
become part of the vernacular: "Not even flying is better!"

You can read, listen to music, surf the web, play games, watch
movies in brilliant picture and sound quality or hold a meeting at
120 km/h and work on your files. The creators are certain that
autonomous driving will actually make individual travel even more
attractive compared to traveling by train, plane or long-distance
coach. As Rinderknecht puts it: "I am given free time that I can
use for myself anyway I please, while the sensor systems and the
computer chauffeur me safely and reliably to my destination".

The Geneva Motor Show will take place from March 6 through 16,
2014. The Rinspeed "XchangE" is already the twentieth proprietary
concept vehicle of the Swiss "Think Tank" and "Mobility Lab".

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